As August ushers in Women’s Month commemorations, Aware.org shines a spotlight on the extraordinary women who are the heart and soul of the alcohol industry’s harm reduction programmes. These women are more than professionals—they are mothers, daughters, sisters, and friends who passionately dedicate themselves to nurturing safer communities and healthier lives.
Every day, these women step into their roles with courage and compassion, facing the complex challenges of alcohol misuse head-on. They don’t just work in the industry; they bring a profound sense of responsibility and a personal commitment to fostering change.
"Each story of recovery and responsible living reminds me why I chose this path. It's about saving lives, preserving families, and building stronger communities," says Adrie Vermeulen, National Coordinator at SANCA who has been a guiding light in harm reduction at AWARE.org. She says: “Seeing someone getting advice and treatment, getting a second chance in life to be the best version of themselves is the most rewarding part of my career.”
In the heart of every community, these women are the pillars of support, providing education and assistance to those affected by alcohol misuse. They work tirelessly to create environments where every individual feels valued and supported.
"Women are supposed to play proactive roles in addressing harm reduction matters. Our role as women is multi-faceted, filling many spaces when it comes to alcohol harm reduction. Therefore, when you empower women, you can achieve the desired positive change. It is important to empower and educate women so that they understand the responsibility that lies with them in society. We are all in this together. When we come together as a community, we create a safety net for those who need it the most. It’s about being there for each other," reflects Refilwe Mongale, the executive manager for road safety stakeholder relations at the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), whose work has touched countless lives in the road safety space.
These women are more than just professionals—they are role models whose actions speak louder than words. They inspire not only through their work but through their genuine care and empathy, showing that every small step can lead to significant change.
"My role allows me the platform to make a positive difference in the lives of our consumers by fostering a culture of responsible consumption and to be part of solutions that uplift and grow our communities. In the alcohol industry women stand tall and take up their rightful place in every sphere – from the craft brewers, the winemakers to the production floor, to the boardrooms. I am very proud to work with exceptional women and men in Heineken and our industry, that are authentic in leading the charge to create a positive alcohol narrative. It is most rewarding when we get positive feedback from our partners and beneficiaries because of our Heineken support and interventions, shares Jolene Henn, Head of Social Responsibility for HEINEKEN Beverages South Africa.
“At AWARE.org, we are profoundly grateful for these women who pour their hearts into their work every single day. Their unwavering efforts and boundless compassion make them true heroes in the fight against irresponsible or illegal alcohol use as is the case with underage drinking,” says Mokebe Thulo, Head of Brand at AWARE.org.
"Working alongside such incredible women is an honor. Their strength, dedication, and kindness are what drive real change," says Thulo, acknowledging the collective impact of her peers.
As we honour these champions during Women’s Month, we celebrate not just their professional achievements but their humanity and resilience. Their stories remind us that change is possible when driven by love and empathy.
“I am a mother of three beautiful kids and feel particularly strongly about leaving a positive legacy – both for my children and for all of society. I would like to continue to be a part of finding solutions to our social challenges such as unemployment, economic growth and other social ills that we face in South Africa. I am also proud to be part of the few women in our industry who are leading the agenda of social structural change. I would like to leave behind established programmes which drive real impact and promote positive behavioural change. Most importantly, I want people to know that there is hope. The more we work together, the more impactful we will be, and every step we take makes a huge difference.” Says Pamela Nkuna, Corporate Affairs Director, South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa at Pernod Ricard
"Empowering communities brings us immense joy as we help women and communities overcome alcohol abuse and addiction. Success stories fuel our passion to do even more. It starts with understanding, compassion, support and education. When we see each other as part of a larger family, we can create a future where everyone thrives," reflects Dr Leanna Olivier, CEO of FARR on her journey in harm reduction.
AWARE.org calls on South Africans to embrace this Women’s Month as a time to not only recognise these individualsbut to join them in their mission. This can mobilise a whole-of-society to realise responsible drinking and community support as the prevailing social norms. At AWARE.org, we pledge to continue supporting these trailblasers as they lead us towards a healthier, more compassionate world.
“In celebrating these women, we celebrate the potential within all of us to make a difference. Their stories are our stories, their struggles our struggles, and their victories our victories. Here’s to the women who make our communities better, one heart at a time,” concludes Thulo.
As we celebrate Women’s Month, we honor the women who are making a difference in the alcohol industry and beyond. Their unwavering commitment to harm reduction and community support is an inspiration to us all. Aware.org calls on everyone to join these champions in their mission to create a healthier, safer world where responsible drinking is the norm. Together, we can build a future where every community thrives.
